READ ALL ABOUT IT, NYC!

Guess what paper of note just published a piece on our Manhattan take-over?

Makes sense to me. After all, news of the trunk show has hit the airwaves and the interwebs, and hit them hard. While surfing the net today, I came across some pretty sweet pieces from style.com and NY MAG. Even publications across the pond are reporting on the dazzling duds we're packing for our downtown NYC trunk show, co-hosted with Rent the Runway. Merci Buckets, Harper's Bazaar UK!

Sounds pretty chic, no? Oui. So, should you happen to live in New York or can rush to your local airport and hop on a jet airliner to attend the fashion festivities, including the ultimate in vintage and modern Hollywood glamour, a boutique curated by Cameron Silver, exclusively for Rent the Runway, and an amazing selection of Prada and Schiaparelli signature looks, hand-picked by Christos Garkinos, to celebrate the Italian designer's upcoming museum exhibit, you definitely should go to the trunk show and get your shop on.

Hop on the N/R and take it straight to Openhouse Gallery, 201 Mulberry Street (between Spring and Kenmare Streets) on Friday, April 27th from 10am - 7pm and Saturday, April 28 from 10am - 6pm to get your hands on the best in luxury vintage and modern designer fare, such as the super chic vintage cocktail dress you see below. Talk about taking the LBD to a whole new level.

And stay tuned for details of our upcoming Uptown trunk show next week. We're taking the Big Apple by one major sartorial spring storm!

--Lizzy

DECADES IS TAKING OVER MANHATTAN

Great news, NYC: We're taking over Manhattan, one neighborhood at a time. First, we're conquering Soho, with an amazing trunk show that we're co-hosting with our sartorial pals, Rent the Runway.

Be sure to drop by and shop the trunk show at Openhouse Gallery (201 Mulberry Street between Spring and Kenmare), which in addition to our usual amazing vintage and modern fashion finds, will include a boutique hand-curated by Cameron Silver, exclusively for Rent the Runway as well as Schiaparelli and Prada pieces picked by Christos Garkinos and the Decades team to celebrate the two Italian designers upcoming museum exhibit.

And of course, we know you New Yorkers are noses to the grindstone/warp-speed career gals. Don't worry. You won't need to call in sick to get your hands on the goods. The trunk show is open from 10am - 7pm this Friday, April 27th and Saturday, April 28th from 10am - 6pm. So, zip on over after quitting time or hop on the N/R after coffee and croissant Saturday morning. We'll see you there.

And be sure and stay tuned to our blog to get deets on our second trunk show, kicking off the following week on the Upper East Side. See, Big Apple? We've got you covered.

--Lizzy

GORGEOUS IN GALANOS

Some have turned their noses down at SoCal style, but if there's anyone in the world to turn the haters into lovers, it's James Galanos. Period. Galanos is perhaps single-handedly responsible for creating old school Hollywood Glam. Think luxurious fabrics and fur, exquisite draping, luscious fabrics, meticulous cuts and ornate detailing, such as his iconic gilded butterfly.

Personally, I love Galanos' rags to riches story, which proves that hard work, belief in one's self, and following your heart's desire to be creative pays off. Turns out, taste and elegance can come from Jersey. Shoresters, take note. Here's a few fun fashion facts from the life and work of James Galanos:

Galanos first arrived on our sunny shores as a youngster determined to make a name for himself in fashion. After a dissapointing start in New York as a clerical assistant in sartorial salon of Hattie Carnegie (Pauline Triegère and Norman Norell got their start at Carnegie's), Galanos moved to L.A. to design for a husband and wife team, the Lesavoys. Sadly, the duo divorced and Galanos lost his gig.

Of course, if you're having on trouble on 7th Avenue, there's just may be a place for you on Sunset. Jean Louis, head designer at Columbia Pictures, hired Galanos to sketch ensembles for pictures. He then traveled to Paris, working for Robert Piguet. After another frustrating try at designing in New York, where Galanos was let down by design positions which didn't encourage him to express himself creatively, the upstart up and hightailed it back to Tinseltown and launched a line of his own. Upon seeing Galanos' creations, which looked haute couture though were pret-a-porter pieces pronounced that Galanos would soon be a household name.

And he was because the movies came calling again. Galanos designed ensembles for icons such as Rosalind Russell, Judy Garland, Marilyn Monroe, and Elizabeth Taylor not to mention Grace Kelly and Marlene Deitrich who sought Galanos' "glamour quotient".

And frankly, who doesn't need a little glamour sprinkled like fairy dust into their lives. Even if you don't have a photo opportunity in your immediate future, this dress is guaranteed to make you feel as your life is one red carpet that you're meant to float down and through, always gracious, elegant and of course, glamourous.

Isn't he inspiring? Both the man and his clothes give a gal reason to seek the stars. Perfect for our town.

--Lizzy

James Galanos vintage black duchess satin halter gown, c. late 50s/early 60s. Modern size: Approximately 2/4. SOLD

SOMETHING OLDHAM, SOMETHING NEW

If you grew up in the 90s, then you have a soft spot in your heart for certain American designers: Anna Sui, Isaac Mizrahi, Perry Ellis (the Marc Jacobs collection especially), and of course, Todd Oldham. I mean, C'mon, "Todd Time" on MTV's House of Style was the hautest thing on tv, hands down.

I remember Oldham's bright bold sense of color and whimsy. And, with all the color blocking coming down the runways for the past year, I can't help but think back to Oldham's offerings. So, I was super stoked when I saw this pretty printed perfect-for-summer sundress courtesy of Mr. Oldham himself. I figure I can match it with my combat boots, a chunky Dries sweater and harken back to a time when Nirvana ruled the airwaves, I was sneaking into Max Fish and chic accessories of the era included lollipops, glowsticks and furry animal backpacks. True story.

BACKHAND COMPLIMENT

There's something super chic about playing playing tennis. It's very East Coast, super Memorial Day weekend in the Hamptons.

If you're going to pick up a racket and get in the game, there's still no reason for not bringing your inimitable sense of style to the courts. Instead of one those lil' pleated mini skirts, let us suggest serving up this tennis tank dress courtesy of Chanel®. This way, they'll be complimenting your beautiful backhand as well as your beautiful ensemble. Score.

--Lizzy

SEA FIRE

Angelo Tarlazzi was an Italian designer with a lot of French flair. His designs seem to always remain modern and fresh. One of the big trends for Spring 2012 from the runways was obviously a futuristic water world, starting with Chanel and Lagerfeld's water inspired collection, Givenchy's theme of a love affair between a surfer and a mermaid, to McQueen's sea coral details.

All the elements of a Tarlazzi design and elements of the latest trends you will find in this light mint dress. The knot on the shoulder and the bias cut creating volume through a flared ruffle. The lightness of the fabric with a iridescent mother-of-pearl shimmer gives this dress the lightness that today's trends emphasize. It is a sexy dress for a sexy woman.  In this Tarlazzi dress you will feel like a mermaid and if you reside in California it will be easy to find your very own surfer boy!

-Eri 

Angelo Tarlazzi mint silk lurex dress with detachable capelet, c.1970's. Modern size 4. SOLD

For additional information, please email blog@decadesinc.com or call + 1 323 655-1960. You may also visit us in person at Decades 8214 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Please reference the description above, if calling or emailing.

SOLAR FLARE

Sportswear emerged in New York as this seasons biggest theme. From parachute dresses at Altuzarra to floral hoodies at Alexander Wang. One of the biggest sportswear designers that came out of the 30's is Vera Borea, based in Paris. She designed sportswear for women because she found it difficult to find good quality sportswear at an affordable prices. As her fame grew, so did her collections. She expanded in ready to wear making beautiful elegant dresses. One her signature was the empire waist. This dress from Vera Borea Paris has all the elements of spring 2012; the color, the easy flow and the carefully thought out mix of beads and tiny gold leaves paillettes sewn onto the straps and around the empire waist. It is the perfect dress for a cocktail party, if you are attending a wedding or simply dinner date on a much deserved vacation. Work on your tan and you will look like a goddess made of gold.

-Eri

Vera Borea Paris silk crepe gown with gold paillettes an beads, c. 1950's. Modern size 4

For additional information, please email blog@decadesinc.com or call + 1 323 655-1960. You may also visit us in person at Decades 8214 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Please reference the description above, if calling or emailing.

GOLDEN DELICIOUS

Hey Big Apple, guess who's coming to town? Sadly, not me. I'll be back in LA, hanging ten, super jealz that I'm missing double the Decades hulabaloo, tearing up the town and painting it red . . . and cobalt, jade, violet, peony, marigold plus several prints that would make Mary Katrantzou proud. That said, Cameron Silver, Christos Garkinos and Decades are returning to New York, ready to take Manhattan by storm.

Of course, we'd love it if all you New Yorkers came and helped kick off our downtown NY trunk show. We'll be raising a glass to toast the event with our co-hosts, Rent the Runway, and dear NYC pals and gals at the VIP Opening Night Reception on Thursday, April 26th from 6p - 9p at Openhouse Gallery, 201 Mulberry Street, between Spring and Kenmare Streets.

Space will surely be limited. To attend, you must RSVP: decades@gckpartners.com

Can't make it? Don't fret. The trunk will open to the public: Friday, April 27th from 10a - 7p and Saturday, April 28th from 10a - 6p.

Want a sneak peek of the chic pieces we're bring to New York? Click here. Talk about packing the heat, no?

--Lizzy

HOLY TRINITY

I was scrolling about online and happened across this recent party pic of Cameron Silver, Michelle Harper and Rod Keenan. Pretty chic, no?

I know I'm a girl and all, but I'm not above taking style cues from the guys. Besides, a black velvet blazer with gold embroidery and leather insets seems the perfect jacket for Spring's transition to fall. I know I live on the West coast, but this is desert weather and it cools down at night. But I'm willing to bet this blazer will keep me warm and looking cool. So will stylish pals like Michelle and Rod.

They look like they're the newest, not to mention elegant, mod squad ever. I just love it.

--Lizzy

FUR REAL

Most gals can incorporate a 2.55 or classic flap, easy, no problem. But, it takes a special gal with that infamous franco je ne sais quoi to rock this baby. It's loud. It's proud. It's covered in bouclé, fur, tweed, and quilted leather and looks pretty darn chic without seeming like someone at Coco headquarters raided the fabric swatch closet after a few too many prosecco's. Not an easy feat.

Want to get carried away with this handbag? I don't blame you. Click here for more information and/or to purchase.

TOTALLY TICKLED . . .

Maybe it's the fact that several chic caravans of hipsters, magic makers, music makers, and geo-gals recently departed our fair city for the desert for Coachella, Round 1. Or maybe it's just that I've been listening to tunes from Fleetwood Mac to Florence and the Machine to Santigold to Mimi Baez Farina to Bat for Lashes, but it's time to add a lil' rock-n-roll to the ole wardrobe.

There's something super lady-on-a-dark-stage a la Lana del Ray that reminds me of this painted feather collar. I would probably take it easy underneath and wear this exquisitely painted accoutrement courtesy of R. Lee Manuel askew over a lingerie-inspired slip of of dress and maybe Yohji boots and a phat gold four-finger ring. Just so I could show off the painted plaid detailing ON THE FEATHERS. What do you think about that?

Look out, wax. Hear I come (tee hee).

--Lizzy

HOSTESS WITH THE MOSTESS

It is a print moment in fashion. Think of Jason Wu's colorful ladylike dresses, Rodarte's florals, and one of my personal favorites, LA's very own Trina Turk who makes retro prints look fresh and festive. This 1960s Donald Brooks is particularly interesting to me because it's a bold print but in subtle shades of greige, one of my favorite neutrals. I've called this post "Hostess with the Mostess" because the empire waist dress has maxi sleeves without being a maxi dress so it's perfect for the modern hostess. I've also noticed that everyone around me seems to be preggers, so this is just the right dress to wear when you have a maxi bump, too. However, it's just as wearable when your tummy is flat, too!


-Cameron




Donald Brooks shades of greige print maxi sleeve short hostess dress, c. 1960s. Free size over lay, fitted modern 2 to 6 under-dress. Spot as shown.

For additional information, please email blog@decadesinc.com or call + 1 323 655-0223. You may also visit us in person at Decades 8214 1/2 Melrose Avenue (2nd Floor) at Harper Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Please reference the description above, if calling or emailing. For email requests, kindly include your full name and phone number plus City, State, and Country from which you are contacting, so may offer you a high level of personal service.

PINK IS CHIC

"En avril ne te découvre pas d'un fil, mais en mai fais ce qu'il te plaît". It's raining cats and dogs in LA and it is very unusual for us. Buy this Courrèges super chic coat and it will keep you warm and brighten your day and everyone's around you.

-Eri

Courreges coat with gold buttons and pockets, c.1960's. Modern size 4 SOLD

For additional information, please email blog@decadesinc.com or call + 1 323 655-1960. You may also visit us in person at Decades 8214 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Please reference the description above, if calling or emailing.

MAD WEATHER

We have been on a Norell kick lately and since April showers are upon us, we couldn't stop thinking about the perfect coat to wear. Obviously the influence of Mad Men these days is apparent. Every Monday morning we browse our closets for something 60's inspired. And with the temperature in the 60's, a navy double-breasted coat is the perfect chic choice. Norell knew how to make a perfect simple dress or a coat, that took you from day to evening. This Norell has everything, a little bit of retro, a little bit of chic and a lot of class.

-Eri

Norman Norell for I. Magnin navy double breasted coat in wool blend, c.1960's. Modern size 4.

For additional information, please email blog@decadesinc.com or call + 1 323 655-1960. You may also visit us in person at Decades 8214 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Please reference the description above, if calling or emailing.

TAKE NOTE . . .

Before iPhones and tablets and ESP, I remember when Filofaxes were all the rage. In fact, I begged my mother for one for Christmas when I was a mere teen. And for some reason, she got it for me. I'm not sure what I had to keep track of at fourteen. Parties? Kicking it in the meadow with my other delinquent, I mean, debutante friends? Hanging out late night uptown on the steps of the Metropolitan Museum of Art or downtown at The World?

But I remember thinking that there was just something so chic about pulling that filofax out of my danish bookbag and checking to see if I could hit up Pat Field's on a Saturday afternoon. And truth be told, I still think there's something elegant about a gal who puts pen to paper. I'm not suggesting that you rid yourself of all technology together. But, imagine pulling this vintage Gucci address book out of your 2.55 and taking down your new pals contact info or jotting down your Sunday Farmer's Market list in its creamy silken pages?

Sounds pretty decadent, no? I say "Oui."

Click HERE to make this Gucci address book yours!

--Lizzy

OH MY MARNI!

I dunno about you but I'm a major Marni fan. After all, the brand boasts some pretty pretty prints, pleating and purses. Not to mention that if ever want to literally borrow from the boys, you could do a whole lot worse than getting your hands on a Marni men's cashmere cardi. I'm just saying.

Lucky for us Marni mavens, we posted a bonanza of the Italian brand just yesterday. I'm talking everything from sweet tops and frocks to chic bags and retro-sleek kicks. Personally, I've got my eye on a thick and supple thistle leather tote, but I could also go for one of Marni's signature cropped jackets. Or printed tops. Or grab-and-go clutches. Or . . .

Want to make your Marni move? Click here to check out our amazing Marni collection.

Viva Italia!

--Lizzy

WEEKEND WARRIOR

Sometimes, a gal's just got to hit the road and get out of dodge for a sec, you feel me? I'm making no plans, no reservations, no travel guides--just pulling out onto the freeway and going where the wind takes me this weekend. Let's hope it's somewhere warm because my travel case will include pieces akin to: gossamer Isabel Marant tops, Manolo Blahnik flat sandals, Isabel Canovas bucket bags, CC belts and bling, bold hued Courreges sundresses, a vintage Pauline Trigere scarf slash poncho, vintage emboidered boho tunics, Hermès hipslingers, and of course, some gladiator sandals.

Dear Freeway Gods,
Might we be feeling the Integratron? Pretty please?
We could always stop by the orchid farm . . .

--Lizzy

THE ANSWER TO YOUR QUESTIONS

Yesterday our talented in house photographer and website master, Joe, put on Facebook the image above and asked our friends to guess what's in the bag. Some guessed it right:) Voila. A Hermes Kelly in toile and bone box calf leather from 1998. It is in great condition, very gently and lovingly used by its previous owner. Make it yours and wear it with everything in your closet from your jeans to your YSL power suit and/or all your Etro

Hermes Kelly 28cm in toile and bone boxed calf leather with gold hardware, B stamped for 1998. SOLD

For additional information, please email blog@decadesinc.com or call + 1 323 655-1960. You may also visit us in person at Decades 8214 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Please reference the description above, if calling or emailing.

SHOW TIME

Well, good news is hard to keep under wraps, even Commes des Garcons wraps. WWD (see below), Fashionista and The Daily Front Row have all reported on the "Decades" tube debut. You should definitely check out the interviews in each article.

Of course, it's really interesting to hear Decades co-owner Christos Garkinos discuss his and business partner Cameron Silver's decision to enter the reality forum on Bravo TV but the real reason to check these babies out is for seminal Christos quotes. My own personal favorite new catchphrase: "Fashion Porn".

While I guess you'll be watching this in the privacy of your own living room, there's no need to duck into a dark store at the end of some strip mall to get your hands on it in the first place. In fact, you can wear your best dress and pal up with your gals to proudly tune in to episode number uno. And stay tuned for listing deets!

--Lizzy

MARANT MAVENS ON THE MOVE

Who doesn't love Isabel Marant? Model-chic-in-her-skinnies, Marant has slowly and steadily built a name for herself over the past twenty years. And those trials and tribulations have paid off. After all, Marant, no longer just the queen of Franco fashion, is the reigning go-to for cool clothes hanging in the closets of uptown and downtown girls alike, no matter which urban jungle you call home.

And while Marant's wares may be in heavy rotation for each and every modern girl, her clothes owe vintage designers a big debt. She's clearly studied the greats and taken notes. From Mugler to Muir, you can see vintage details in each and every collection, be they in tone or trend. Even those beloved scrunchy boots that secured Marant's position as the guru of slouchy style reminisce of 70s disco-era foot candy.

So, for today's Through the Decades section on our website, I pulled a few Isabel Marant pieces and paired them with vintage pieces that have a similar vibe. From ruby paisley prints to stretchy draped dresses to from Studio 54 desert palettes to military flair, these pieces are musts for Marant girls. Personally, I've got my eye on the best ever Thierry Mugler jumpsuit known to man. But, that's just me.

Want to check 'em out? Just click HERE m'dear.

--Lizzy

Isabel Marant ruby paisley draped tunic dress / Vintage Yves Saint Laurent ruby paisley button-front blouse

Isabel Marant black textured draped dress / Vintage Commes des Garcons black textured draped dress

Isabel Marant military cinched vest / Thierry Mugler military cinched dress

LOOKING GOOD, GOOD LOOKING!

*image courtesy of style.com

Well, well, well . . . guess who got snapped on the carpet at the Valentino party?

As we all know, prints are H.U.G.E. for Spring 2012 and while this trend seems an easy mark for the ladies (Floral printed frocks, anyone? And speaking of Mary Katranzou . . .), Gents can pick patterns too. However, instead of going head-to-toe with a rose printed three-piece, you might want to keep it simple and chic with a bright printed tie or other accessory against casual and neutral pieces. See Cameron Silver's gold-winning ensemble above for outfit inspo. Case in print, I mean, point.

--Lizzy

THE COLORFUL REALM OF ODETTE

Odette Barsa started her career in fashion designing lingerie in the 30's and designed fashionable womenswear through the 60's. Because of her background in lingerie her designs were always elegant with an eye for detail. That's what makes this dress special. The soft cotton blend, unlined, with boat neck and cap sleeves finished off with a rainbow belt. But what got us most excited about this dress is the beautiful print, reminiscent of japanese floral painting of the 1800's , calm, distilled and yet dynamic and happy. This dress quietly screams spring is here. So put on your Celine wedges and a straw bag a la Jane Birkin and go out. You will look perfect!

-Eri

Odette Barsa cotton summer dress in floral print with belt, c.1960's. Modern size 2 to 4.

For additional information, please email blog@decadesinc.com or call + 1 323 655-1960. You may also visit us in person at Decades 8214 Melrose Avenue in Los Angeles, California. Please reference the description above, if calling or emailing.